Three Ways to Make Back-to-School More Inclusive
Back to school can be an exciting and nerve-wracking time for students, parents and educators alike. For teachers, it can be particularly daunting, as the first few weeks of school can really set the tone for the entire year. Unlike many professional development and training sessions might insinuate, aiming to create an inclusive classroom also starts the very first day. The messages that kids receive, not only from the teacher but from the classroom itself can affect the way the student perceives school for the subsequent year and can affect the student’s academic success.
Here are some tips to make back to school more inclusive.
- Get to know your students
The first step may seem like the most obvious, yet many teachers fail to get to know their students beyond superficial information like favorite animals. Getting to know students includes getting to know relevant information such as family dynamics, gender identity, disabilities and languages spoken at home. All of these could be a major part of the student’s identity and an opportunity to really see your students. Before stepping into the classroom, make a thoughtful list of questions that can be asked to students about their identities. It is important that as part of a careful pedagogical approach, these questions are intentionally and carefully planned.
- Make it a safe space
Saying your classroom is a safe space is one thing, but actually making it a safe space is another. So how do you make your classroom “safe”? Beyond the obvious no running in the classroom with scissors, etc, it is important to consider how a classroom can be safe for students from varying backgrounds and identities. Make sure to include student voices early on. Set up a system so that students can collaborate on classroom decisions and let their voices be heard regularly. Display a wide-range of ethnic, racial, gender and orientation representation in your books, your posters, and your decor. Make it known early on that collaboration is encouraged in the classroom. Provide a physical space for students to relax and a regular block of time where students can reflect on their personal lives in the classroom.
3. Personalized Learning
Set up your class time from the beginning to adjust to students’ different needs and interests. Introduce some topics you will cover throughout the year. Ask students early on about their interests, knowledge and experiences related to the topics. Think about their feedback in order to include it in the curriculum. Allow students early on choice and an individualized pace so that they may incorporate their cultures, languages, identities and interests into projects in the classroom. Consider culturally responsive ways to present educational materials based on your student population. For example, are any of your students interested in: music, dance, chess? Think of ways you can incorporate multiple forms of learning in the classroom to reflect the different cultures in your room.
Creating an inclusive classroom is not a one-time effort but an ongoing process that requires intentionality and reflection. By getting to know your students, ensuring a safe and supportive environment, and personalizing learning, you can set the stage for a positive and enriching school year. Embrace these practices to foster an environment where every student feels seen, heard, and valued.
